Excluded from history books, and neglected by the media, African Americans have long been denied an accurate picture of their contributions to America. But times have changed and the record can now be set straight. From the inventors of the traffic light and the gas mask to winners of an Oscar and the Olympic gold, this authoritative resource reveals over 450 'firsts' by African Americans - wonderful accomplishments achieved despite poverty, discrimination and racism. This fully updated and revised version includes new individuals and over 100 colour photographs.